I had hoped to get my passport changed by using the gov web site on line system. I followed it assiduously, the result was a multipage document indicating what was necessary including that no fee was required. I followed it to the letter. Yesterday, I got it all back with the same blank form and a terse sentence explanation that said I had to fill out the same form and pay fees. I went back to the web site and filled out the form on line again and it was the same as the one I sent in.
I finally figured that there is no way to get the form printed out on line with a gender change correction and have it require a fee. The web site is very poor. They have two forms, a DS-11 and DS-82 but on line, the links are messed up. Their FAQ's are very poor.
So I called my local agent and the upshot is that I have to do it in person. I was hoping to avoid doing that because the application is done at the counter at the post office and every one standing in line can hear what is said. To make it as painless as possible, I filled out the form off line and have all my documents ready. I also came out to the agent and she knows that I want to be discreet.
When I got that old passport back, it was like a kick in the stomach. Everything had been going so well except the credit reporting agencies (who are being totally uncooperative).
Maggie
Post Merge: March 13, 2009, 01:55:47 PM
I just returned from the Post Office and my passport is now applied for again. The gal there was very nice. She has a friend that is also transtioning so she fully understands the issue. When we were finished with the formal stuff, she held my hand in her hands to wish me well. We both almost teared up. Not everything is a hair shirt.
Maggie
